– Postoperative pain was significantly lower following MIS techniques, but despite this, the amount of pain relief (change in VAS score) provided by both procedures was not significantly different.

– MIS, however, includes the use of imaging for navigation during pedicle screw placement. The use of imaging prolongs operating times, while also increasing patient and surgeon exposure to ionising radiation.

– MIS techniques have steep learning curves, requiring a different set of cognitive, psychomotor and technical skills, it’s recommended that surgeons have adequate experience with open procedures before attempting MIS methods.

– MIS approaches to spinal fusion have not yet been shown to be superior in effectiveness to traditional open techniques.

– MIS approach provides greater patient satisfaction while being as effective, if not more so, than conventional open approach.